Goal:

To perform a safety study of the impacts of a rear luggage compartment attached to a double-decker motorcoach on vehicle operations, fire suppression, tire loads, and roadway pavement.

Background:

Section 5510 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act, 2015 (Public Law 114-94) mandates the Secretary of Transportation to perform this particular safety study. FMCSA will conduct a study “regarding the safety operations, fire suppression capability, tire loads, and pavement impacts of operating a double-decker motorcoach equipped with a device designed by the motorcoach manufacturer to attach to the rear of the motorcoach for use in transporting passenger baggage.” In conducting the study, FMCSA will consult with State transportation safety and law enforcement officials.

Summary:

The safety study includes six tasks, as follows:

Draft a work plan.

Perform a literature review review of prior safety studies done on such vehicles operating in the United States or Europe or justifying an authorization to operate such vehicles in a State of the United States or a country in Europe. This includes any historical data on incidents, accidents, or fires involving such vehicles.